If you have ever wished for a bowl of comfort that wraps you up like a warm hug, this Italian Wedding Soup Recipe is exactly what you need. Bursting with tender homemade meatballs, fresh greens, and perfectly cooked pasta swimming in a rich, savory broth, this classic soup is a timeless favorite. Every spoonful delivers bright flavors and satisfying textures that make it a go-to weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing starter. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this recipe brings a little taste of Italy right to your kitchen in an easy-to-follow, joyful way.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Italian Wedding Soup Recipe calls for simple, wholesome ingredients that each play a crucial role in flavor and texture. The combination of ground meats creates juicy meatballs, while fresh veggies brighten the broth, and acini di pepe pasta adds just the right touch of bite.
- Italian style breadcrumbs: Essential for tender, moist meatballs that hold together beautifully.
- Milk: Helps soften the breadcrumbs and fuse the meatball mix for a perfect texture.
- Ground beef and Italian sausage: A flavorful duo that creates juicy, savory meatballs packed with character.
- Freshly grated parmesan cheese: Adds an umami punch inside the meatballs and more on top for serving.
- Large egg: Acts as a binder, keeping the meatballs from falling apart.
- Salt and pepper: The fundamentals for seasoning that let all flavors shine.
- Olive oil: Used for sautéing vegetables and browning meatballs, bringing richness and depth.
- Onion, celery, and carrots: Classic soffritto base that gives the broth natural sweetness and aroma.
- Garlic: Adds a subtle kick and warmth to the soup’s flavor profile.
- Chicken broth: The soul of the soup that ties everything together with its savory goodness.
- Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend of herbs that enhances the soup’s authentic taste.
- Acini di pepe pasta (or orzo): Tiny pasta shapes that soak up broth without overpowering the soup.
- Fresh baby spinach: Brings color, nutrients, and a delicate earthiness to finish the dish.
How to Make Italian Wedding Soup Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs
Start by soaking the breadcrumbs in milk until they become soft and mushy—that’s the secret to unbelievably tender meatballs. Mix in your ground beef, Italian sausage, parmesan, egg, salt, and pepper with your hands, but be gentle to keep them light. Shape the mixture into tiny 1-inch meatballs; this size allows them to cook quickly and remain juicy inside.
Step 2: Brown the Meatballs
Heat olive oil in a large soup pot over medium-high heat until it’s hot enough not to make the meatballs stick. Brown them in batches to develop a rich, caramelized crust that adds a depth of flavor. Don’t worry if they aren’t fully cooked here; they’ll finish cooking in the soup.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same pot, add chopped onions, celery, and carrots. These aromatic vegetables form the base layer of your soup, slowly softening and releasing their natural sweetness as they cook for 7 to 8 minutes.
Step 4: Add Garlic
Stir in minced garlic and let it cook for just a minute to infuse its delightful aroma without burning, which ensures the soup won’t taste bitter.
Step 5: Build the Soup
Pour in the chicken broth and sprinkle in the Italian seasoning for an herbal boost. Return the browned meatballs to the pot and crank the heat up until the soup boils, bringing all those flavors into a melding dance.
Step 6: Cook Pasta in the Soup
Once boiling, stir in the acini di pepe pasta and reduce heat to a gentle simmer. Let it cook uncovered for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally so the pasta doesn’t clump and absorbs just the right amount of broth.
Step 7: Finish with Spinach and Seasoning
Finally, stir in the fresh baby spinach leaves until they wilt into the soup’s warmth. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Ladle the soup into bowls and don’t be shy about topping with extra parmesan cheese for that irresistible finishing touch.
How to Serve Italian Wedding Soup Recipe
Garnishes
This soup truly shines when topped with a generous sprinkle of freshly grated parmesan cheese, adding a salty, nutty layer that melts into the broth. For a little pop of color and freshness, a few finely chopped parsley leaves or a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil works beautifully, too.
Side Dishes
Pair this delightful soup with crusty Italian bread or garlic breadsticks to scoop up every last drop. A crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette can also balance the meal with refreshing brightness, making your dinner a full experience without overwhelming flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve individual portions in rustic bowls with mini spoons for an intimate dinner party vibe. Or ladle the soup into small cups as a warm appetizer for gatherings. You can even make a comforting Italian Wedding Soup-inspired pasta salad by tossing cooked meatballs, pasta, spinach, and a light vinaigrette if you want a cold twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover Italian Wedding Soup Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen after resting overnight, making your next meal even tastier. Just be mindful that the pasta might absorb more broth and get softer over time.
Freezing
This soup freezes well but to maintain the best texture, store the meatballs and broth separately from the pasta and spinach if possible. Freeze in airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge.
Reheating
Reheat the soup gently over low to medium heat on the stove, stirring often to prevent sticking. If it seems too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen it up. Add fresh spinach just before serving if you prefer a brighter, fresher taste.
FAQs
Can I use other types of pasta instead of acini di pepe?
Absolutely! Small-shaped pastas like orzo or tiny ditalini work wonderfully in this soup, holding onto the broth and complementing the meatballs without overpowering them.
Is it possible to make the meatballs without pork?
Yes, you can substitute the Italian sausage with all ground beef, turkey, or even chicken. Just add extra seasoning to keep your meatballs flavorful and juicy.
Can I prepare this soup in advance?
Definitely! You can assemble the meatballs a day ahead and keep them refrigerated. The soup itself also tastes great when made a day early as the flavors meld beautifully.
What if I want to make this soup vegetarian?
To create a vegetarian version, swap the meatballs for hearty plant-based ones or roasted vegetables, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Adding mushrooms can also enhance the umami flavor.
How spicy is the Italian Wedding Soup Recipe?
This soup is generally mild, but you can add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce if you’d like a little heat. The Italian sausage may add some mild spice depending on the brand you use.
Final Thoughts
Making this Italian Wedding Soup Recipe is like inviting a warm, flavorful tradition into your home kitchen. It’s approachable, hearty, and endlessly satisfying — perfect for cozy nights or special occasions alike. Don’t hesitate to give it a try; your taste buds and loved ones will thank you with every delicious spoonful!
